A row has broken-out over a decision to end funding for some events in Morecambe, including the forthcoming Pride festival and Vintage by the Sea.
The debate has raised questions about using tax payers’ money for commercial events where individuals receive significant payments, ‘commercialisation’ of the gender equality movement, whether the town council is properly-run and counter-claims that some political parties are ‘shamefully’ exploiting equality and human rights themes for their own political gain.
“We all know that many residents are struggling with finances, and committee members didn’t think it appropriate to give large sums of tax payers’ money out to benefit individuals. “The committee was of the view that the tax payers of Morecambe Town Council would not think it good use of their money to pay the extremely high wages of these festival organisers when there are so many other priorities to be dealt with in the area, for example weed and litter-free streets.”
“The council has a duty to protect public funds and each application is considered on its own merit within a 12-week time-frame. Applicants are able to apply for a grant up to 18-months prior to their event, and outcomes are dependent on the information provided during the application process as opposed to how strongly members personally support the cause.
Coun Parr said: ‘There is a council budget of £90,000 to support festivals in Morecambe. We know that these festivals are a staple on the calendars of people from across the north-west and they bring money into our local businesses. Yet there’s no money for Pride, none for Vintage by the Sea and none for the Nice and Sleazy punk festival. The town council has taken on a festivals officer, yet no festivals seem to be getting any support.
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